Apple's Foldable iPhone Duo: A Single Device to Replace Your iPhone and iPad?

Apple has introduced its first foldable iPhone, called the iPhone Duo, according to CNET. The device was announced alongside new models of the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. CNET Senior Tech Reporter Abrar Al-Heeti got an early look and described the foldable design as resembling a passport, with a 7.6-inch display inside and a 5.4-inch display outside.

Before this launch, Apple did not offer a device that sat between an iPhone and an iPad, CNET notes. The iPad mini has a screen size of a little over 8 inches, slightly larger than the iPhone Duo’s inner display. However, the Duo’s combination of phone functionality and a bigger screen raises the question of whether it could be the ideal handheld for someone already planning to buy both a new iPhone and an iPad.

CNET Director of Content Patrick Holland previously told CNET that foldable phones, such as Samsung’s Z Fold lineup and Galaxy Tab series, are niche products and are not meant to replace the iPhone model users are accustomed to. But the iPhone Duo may be Apple’s attempt to sell to those who want one device that does the work of two, especially for people considering upgrades ahead of the holidays.

CNET offers two cost comparisons. In one scenario, an iPhone 17 base model with 256GB storage starts at $899, and an iPad Pro starts at $1,200, totaling $2,099—about $100 more than the iPhone Duo’s $2,000 starting price. In another scenario, an iPhone 18 Pro Max with 256GB storage costs $1,300 and an iPad mini costs $600, totaling $1,900, which is $100 less than the Duo. CNET suggests the extra $100 for the Duo may be worthwhile for those who value having one device instead of two.

The iPhone Duo is said to include features such as Dual Capture for using the front and rear cameras simultaneously during FaceTime calls. Both the ultrawide and main cameras are 48 megapixels. The battery is described as powerful, offering up to 24 hours of power when both displays are used. The device also includes the A20 Pro chip for better speed and performance, and it runs iOS with all its typical capabilities.

CNET plans a full hands-on test of the iPhone Duo soon to identify its benefits and drawbacks. The author of the CNET piece, who personally owns a MacBook Pro, iPad mini, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, notes that they rarely use all three devices. They suggest the iPhone Duo could be one device that suits most needs—or at least two out of three—and may represent a new audience Apple hopes to capture.

This report is based on CNET’s early look and analysis. Until a full review is conducted, the practical daily benefits and potential trade-offs of the iPhone Duo remain unverified. The cost comparisons and feature descriptions come directly from CNET’s reporting.